Stress Type Patents (Class 116/212)
  • Patent number: 11225603
    Abstract: The purpose of the present invention is to provide a mechanoluminescent material which can be exhibit brighter luminescence compared to traditional SAO mechanoluminescent material even with respect to small strains and which has a relatively high mechanoluminescent capability even when left to stand for a long period of time after excitation. Provided is a strontium aluminate mechanoluminescent material containing Zr ions, characterized in that the Zr ions are contained in a reduced state, the content of the Zr ions is 10 mol % or less, and in a thermoluminescence measurement, one or more luminescence peaks are observed at a temperature of 100° C. or higher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Chao-Nan Xu, Dong Tu
  • Patent number: 10653236
    Abstract: A method (500) for calibrating a pressure sensor (28) of an oral cleaning device (10). The method comprises the steps of: providing an oral cleaning device comprising a body portion (12), an elongated member (14, 720) extending from the body portion and comprising a head (16, 770), a pressure sensor (28) configured to obtain a measurement of a force applied to the head by the user during a cleaning session, and a processor (32) configured to receive, from the pressure sensor, the measurement of force applied to the head; obtaining a non-zero load calibration parameter; and calibrating, by the processor using the non-zero load calibration parameter, the measurement of force received from the pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Martin John Edwards, Toon Hardeman
  • Patent number: 10450174
    Abstract: A hoist ring assembly and related methods of lifting a load wherein the hoist ring assembly includes a bolt for securing the hoist ring assembly to the load and the bolt includes a tensile stress indicator for showing the tensile stress on the bolt when the bolt is tightened onto the load. The hoist ring assembly can further include a radio-frequency identification tag used for communicating information relating to the hoist ring assembly. The methods include using the tensile stress indicator to achieve and maintain a predetermined preload of the bolt, and using the radio-frequency identification tag to obtain historical recorded information relating to the hoist ring assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Assignee: Jergens, Inc.
    Inventors: Bob Kucinic, Darel R. Taylor, Grzegorz Fedorowicz
  • Patent number: 10393493
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a waterproof lever-type indicator, comprising: a housing, a probe, a dial plate and a transmission mechanism. The probe and the dial plate are positioned at both ends of the housing respectively, the transmission mechanism is positioned inside the housing to connect the mounting shaft and the pointer on the dial plate, the end portion of the housing is provided as an enclosed structure, and the probe is in fixed connection with the mounting shaft extending beyond a side wall of the housing. When this indicator is put to practical use, compared with the open design of the end portion, the enclosed structure of the end portion of the housing can reduce possibility that foreign matters enter the indicator, promote the reliability of the indicator and prolong the instrument service life, especially in the workshop environment where foreign matters are more likely to generate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Inventor: Weidong Shi
  • Patent number: 10247639
    Abstract: The invention, a pressure indicator assembly is thread fitted onto a Radiator; the pressure indicator is designed to conduct 2 unique functions of sensing the pre-decided maximum sustainable pressure and communicating the same. Once the pre-decided maximum sustainable pressure of the Radiator is reached, a spring gets actuated and allows air (or steam) to flow inside the pressure indicator assembly. The air flow pushes an arrow head component; the top portion of the arrow head component shoots through a rubber retainer center hole into a visible transparent tube of the assembly. The retainer rubber and the transparent tube only allow partial passage of the arrow head component and entrap its base stem portion permanently, hence permanently flagging off the arrow head component. The flagged arrow head component is visible through the transparent tube, indicating the maximum pressure has been reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Inventor: Ravi Parmanand Bhojwani
  • Patent number: 10144097
    Abstract: A connection element consists of a longitudinally oriented support structure that is at least partially hollow and a sensor unit that is arranged in the inside of the support structure, is connected to a signal transmission device, and is non-positively connected to the support structure. The required force for the non-positive connection is produced by internal stresses after a plastic deformation of the support structure during a joining process of the support structure and the sensor unit. A method for manufacturing a connection element consisting of a support structure that is at least partially hollow and a sensor unit includes positioning the sensor unit in a region of the support structure and, using radially movable tool segments, exerting a force on the support structure in the radial direction and at the same time reducing the periphery of the support structure in the region in which the sensor unit is positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: GLBS PATENTVERWERTUNGSGESELLSCHAFT GBR
    Inventors: Peter Groche, Matthias Brenneis
  • Patent number: 9970471
    Abstract: A direct tension indicator plate, washer assembly, and fastener assembly. The plate includes an annular array of circumferentially-spaced legs extending radially outwardly from a hub, wherein each leg includes a foot portion oriented at least partially in a circumferential direction. The washer assembly includes an indicator plate carried by a washer plate having an annular array of protuberances projecting from a surface, a portion of the indicator plate being carried on the protuberances. The fastener assembly includes a fastener having an axially facing surface positioned against an annular portion of an indicator plate to sandwich the annular portion between the axially facing surface and an array of protuberances of a washer plate, wherein, when the fastener is fastened against the washer plate placing the indicator plate in compression with the washer plate, the array of legs are displaced radially outwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Inventors: Robert E. Stewart, Nicholas Strumbos
  • Patent number: 9933004
    Abstract: The present invention provides improved load-indicating devices for use with structural assemblies that require accurate tensioning of fastening components such as nuts and bolts. In one embodiment, the load-indicating device comprises a body portion defining a bore extending therethrough, a movable member disposed in at least part of the body portion and configured to move in a direction substantially orthogonal to the axis of the bore, and an adjustment means coupled to the movable member and operable to displace the movable member when the body portion is compressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Tenscon Limited
    Inventor: Stanley Ceney
  • Patent number: 9863499
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of anchor chains, and more particularly an anchor chain (1) comprising a first plurality of links (3) and, at the end of the chain, a second plurality of links (4) comprising at least three successive links (4) in each of which at least one property selected from its bar diameter and the elastic limit of its material is substantially greater than in each of the links (3) of the first plurality, in order to improve the ability of the chain to withstand fatigue by bending of the links (4) in the second plurality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: IDEOL
    Inventors: Thomas Choisnet, Stéphan Marobin
  • Patent number: 9677592
    Abstract: A fastening device may include a first member configured for forceful engagement with a second member. The first member may include a sensor configured to emit at least a first photo-luminescent signal to a detector when at least a predetermined first torque level is applied to the first member when the first and second members are engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Roger D. Bernhardt
  • Patent number: 9645061
    Abstract: A bolt tension gauging apparatus is provided with a bolt assembly including a bolt having a top cavity on a head and a recess on a surface of a threaded shank, and a covering element fitted onto the recess; an electrical resonant transformer on a bottom of the covering member; and a force transducer and transmitter assembly in the recess and electrically connected to the transformer. An electrical resonant transformation device causes the transformer to harvest power from radio frequency electromagnetic waves if a distance between the transformation device and the transformer is sufficiently short. The force transducer and transmitter assembly gauges tension of the bolt and converts same into a signal. The signal is transmitted to a controller and display device for calculating a difference between a predetermined tension and the gauged tension. An alert is generated if the gauged tension is greater than the predetermined tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: KABO TOOL COMPANY
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8988235
    Abstract: An improved orthotic has a strap that secures the orthotic to a wearer, and comprises a tension indicator coupled to the strap. The tension indicator includes a first element disposed to produce a tactile signal when a tension in the strap reaches a threshold that is less than a permanent deformation threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Aspen Medical Partners, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Burke, Geoffrey Garth, Jozsef Horvath
  • Publication number: 20140338931
    Abstract: An aerosol fire extinguisher for dispensing a liquid wet chemical fire extinguishing agent, and a composition for the liquid wet chemical fire extinguishing agent, where the liquid wet chemical fire extinguishing agent is rated for class A, B, C and K fires. The fire extinguisher includes a container and a valve assembly affixed to the container. A hag is positioned within the container, where the bag includes an output tube connected in fluid communication to the valve assembly. An actuator is connected in fluid communication to the valve assembly opposite the output tube, where. the actuator has an elongated output orifice. A liquid wet chemical fire extinguishing agent is disposed within the bag and a propellant is disposed within the container, wherein the bag isolates the liquid wet chemical fire extinguishing agent from the propellant. The: configuration of the elongated output orifice expels the liquid wet chemical fire extinguishing agent in a substantially planar pattern onto the fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: BRK Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Mori, Robert Challman, Mark Binter, Stephen Latham, John Boland, Kent Kallsen, Jesse Darley, Dave Franchino
  • Patent number: 8852532
    Abstract: A g-force-sensitive label for detecting and indicating the application of a g-force is provided, the g-force sensitive label comprising an area for detecting and indicating an application of a g-force above a threshold value on the g-force sensitive label and an attachment area for attaching the g-force sensitive label on an object. At least one physical property of the area measurably changes its state upon applying a g-force above the threshold value, thereby altering a displayed pattern such that a machine-readable 1D or 2D or alphanumeric code is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederic Furrer, Mark James Simmons
  • Publication number: 20140260681
    Abstract: A manual manipulation apparatus including a frame assembly, at least one handle associated with frame assembly, a mounting structure configured for mounting of a computer device relative to the frame assembly and an optional glide base connected to the frame assembly, the glide base defining an area of reduced friction. The handle can be configured as a grip handle which allows a gripping force to be applied and indicated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: William Craelius, Nicki Ann Newby
  • Patent number: 8833291
    Abstract: Disclosed is an indicator apparatus for indicating a displacement of two segments, in particular two wall segments of a wind turbine tower wall, relative to each other, the indicator apparatus comprising: a body; a first connection element mounted at the body and adapted to be connected to a first segment; and a second connection element mounted at the body and adapted to be connected to a second segment, wherein the body is configured to generate information indicative of a relative displacement of the first connection element and the second connection element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Christian Laursen
  • Publication number: 20140209010
    Abstract: Performance indicating device (400) adapted to be connected to a processing apparatus (100), in particular to an apparatus for demolishing and in particular for milling surfaces or layers (Sr) upon which one can walk or drive such as for example surfaces made of asphalt or cement or of similar solid materials, and/or to a main operating machine (300) actuating said apparatus (100), said apparatus (100) comprising processing means (10), said device comprising at least a first movable indicating element (401) adapted to be alternatively moved in a first sense of motion and in the opposite sense in case of increase and decrease of the stress undergone by said processing means (10), respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: SIMEX S.R.L.
    Inventor: Mirco Risi
  • Publication number: 20140110918
    Abstract: An overload indicator is shown and described. The overload indicator may include a compression ring located between a portion of a hitch and a hitch ball, the compression ring calibrated to withstand up to a selected vertical force limit. The compression ring collapsing or flattening when applied with a force equal to or greater than the selected vertical force limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Richard W. McCoy
  • Publication number: 20140102354
    Abstract: A pressure indicator for a high-pressure accumulator system, and which includes a pressure indicating element having a channel. The pressure indicating element moves between a starting position and a pressure-indicating position in response to pressure on a side facing a pressure-monitoring region and which is counter to a force of at least one compression spring on the pressure indicating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: MAGNA STEYR Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co KG
    Inventors: Franz MAYR, Carsten SCHMIDT, Alexander SCHÄRFL
  • Patent number: 8662004
    Abstract: A balloon fill gauge for a balloon made of elastomeric expanding material has a base sheet with balloon filling indicia thereon that is temporarily tackable on to the balloon face material. An indicator tab with two ends having one end temporarily tackable onto the balloon material has its other end slideably interlockable with the base sheet. An indicator mark on the tab is alignable with the balloon filling indicia to indicate when the balloon is full as the tacked base sheet and tacked indicator tab move apart during the filling of the balloon. The balloon fill gauge alternatively may have an elongate non-stretchable indicator tab having two ends tackable onto the balloon material which physically acts to visual indicate when the balloon is full by snapping in two, popping off the balloon or changing color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Anagram International, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott W. Gardner, Daniel G. Cook, Anna C. Cook
  • Patent number: 8539945
    Abstract: A dose counter for a metered dose inhaler includes a force sensor, an electronic controller, a memory for storing data indicative of a remaining number of doses and an electronic display device coupled to the controller for displaying the remaining number of doses. The dose counter is attached or integrated into a base of a canister containing medicament such that force applied to the base of the canister is registered by the force sensor, the controller being configured to measure force applied to the dose counter when depressing the canister and being responsive to measured force to decrement the remaining number of doses stored in the memory and shown on the display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Ian Solomon, Moti Goldhirsh
  • Publication number: 20130192512
    Abstract: A safety gauge prevents sling users from exceeding the safe working load of a sling. Unlike conventional devices, the safety gauge described herein has no interference from internal yarns and can be preset to a prescribed load. A strand of yarn (indicator yarn) can be disposed between inner and outer jackets of the sling, in a choke configuration, and attached to an indicator. The outer jacket is then closed in the traditional manner and a window tag in the outer layer is strategically placed over the indicator to permit a user to view the indicator during use of the sling. When pressure is applied, the indicator yarn begins to move in direct relation to the load being applied, causing the indicator to move in the window tag. At a predetermined point, a red color shows, alerting the user that they are in danger of an overload.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Conrad Erickson
  • Publication number: 20120071917
    Abstract: Tourniquet assemblies are provided including a pressure applicator adapted to be secured around a limb and a tensioning mechanism for applying a working tension to the pressure applicator. The tensioning mechanism may include a platform, a clip and a tensioning member. The tensioning mechanism may be configured to apply the working tension via rotation of the tensioning member, and the clip may be configured to receive, and at least temporarily inhibit rotation of, the tensioning member. A tension indicator may also be provided including a base configured to attach to a tourniquet strap, a platform configured to move relative to the base when subjected to a tourniquet working pressure, and one or more tactile or visual indicators configured to provide a variable tactile or visual indicator based on the tourniquet working pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: PSR Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Rex McDonald, Hanners Gevedon, John Eaton
  • Publication number: 20110303787
    Abstract: An overload detecting assembly comprising a lateral probe (18) which cooperates with a first load bearing member (10) as it moves towards a second load bearing member (11) and in turn deflects an indicator member (20) which may take a permanent set when a yield point is exceeded. Ready inspection of the indicator member reveals whether or not it has been bent. The indicator member may comprise a cantilevered beam (24) formed in a sleeve (20) coaxial with the load bearing members (10, 11). Alternatively, an extension (25) of the probe (18) may deflect laterally at a midpoint under overload conditions. Alternatively, the probe (18) may form an impression in an indicator member (30) under overload conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventor: Ian Robert Bennett
  • Patent number: 8029608
    Abstract: A furnace filter indicator system comprises a pressure differential switch that monitors air pressure near a furnace filter, and a transmitter coupled to the pressure differential switch sends a signal to a receiver within a thermostat. The receiver includes an indicator for indicating the status of the furnace filter. If the pressure differential near the furnace filter triggers the switch, then the indicator will receive a “dirty” signal and will indicate that the furnace filter is dirty and should be replaced. The furnace filter indicator system is able to be installed on a previously installed furnace/thermostat system by utilizing the pre-existing wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: BD Technology Partners
    Inventor: Stewart Breslin
  • Patent number: 7975527
    Abstract: Indicator devices and systems are provided. Indicator devices include a sleeve, a dome-like transparent member, a connector body, and an indicator. In alternate embodiments, indicator devices include a sleeve and an indicator retained in the sleeve by a retaining ring and a latch held in place by a spring. Indicator systems include an indicator device coupled to an enclosure containing critical equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventor: Joseph Michael Manahan
  • Patent number: 7757623
    Abstract: Indicator devices and systems are provided. Indicator devices include a sleeve, a dome-like transparent member, a connector body, and an indicator. In alternate embodiments, indicator devices include a sleeve and an indicator retained in the sleeve by a retaining ring and a latch held in place by a spring. Indicator systems include an indicator device coupled to an enclosure containing critical equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventor: Joseph Michael Manahan
  • Patent number: 7730846
    Abstract: A strain-responsive visual indicator comprises a pair of overlapping shutter strips (1, 2) adapted to be mounted to a substrate such that strain in the substrate causes relative movement M between them. Each shutter strip comprises an alternating set of windows (5) or (6) and bars (7) or (8) and the distal strip (2) is backed by a strip (3) of a different color exposed through its windows (6), or the distal strip can instead be printed with a set of alternating colors in place of its windows and bars. The effect is that under different strain conditions different color indications from the distal strip (2) will be visible through the windows (5) of the proximal strip (1), in accordance with the relative positions of the two strips. The indicator can be incorporated e.g. in the shaft of a toothbrush to give a visual warning in response to flexure of the shaft if excessive brushing pressure is applied. Numerous other applications and the use of different types of indicia are indicated in the specification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Qinetiq Limited
    Inventors: Martin Andrew Pett, Ian Andrew Jamieson
  • Publication number: 20090301918
    Abstract: Panel packaging includes a wrapper, comprising at least one panel received by the wrapper and at least one indicator for displaying at least one stress. The indicator alters its appearance at least once depending on the at least one stress. The panel packaging provides improved handling of the panel by including at least one indicator for displaying at least one stress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Martin Steinwender
  • Publication number: 20090301383
    Abstract: An amplified indication of the elongation of a fastener is provided for determining instantaneous loading conditions of a fastener. A load indicator is couplable to a fastener for instantaneous load measurement and includes a housing defining a fastener interface configured to removably couple the housing to a fastener. A moveable datum probe extends from the housing in contact with a datum rod anchored within an internal bore of the fastener. A first lever is pivotally mounted within the housing and is moveable in response to displacement of the datum probe. A load display indicates a degree of loading of a fastener as a function of displacement of the datum probe. A second lever can be used to further amplify the reading from the displacement of the datum probe. An inclined visual scale and a multi-faceted lens allows for viewing of loading values from multiple directions or angles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald C. Clarke
  • Patent number: 7607401
    Abstract: Load-bearing devices, each including an overload indicator of the present invention interconnecting load bearing connectors, preferably elongated load bearing connectors are provided. In preferred embodiments, the load bearing connectors are chains, ropes, wire ropes, cables, straps and the like, preferably chain. The overload indicator includes a link having a strand of wire form material. The strand of wire form material having first and second portions, the first portion having a first strength; the second portion including a weaker segment having a second strength which is less than the first strength. The weaker segment preferably has a generally predetermined load bearing capacity or capability and is calibrated to reduce the load bearing capacity or capability of the overload indicator. Methods of making an overload indicator and a load bearing device including an overload indicators of the present invention are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Peerless Chain Company
    Inventor: John McCauley
  • Patent number: 7600483
    Abstract: A marker for locating an underground object such as a utility line features an elongate, flexible body, with an aperture near one end. The aperture has a “keyhole” shape which imparts sufficient stiffness in the marker so that it does not readily bend or flex at the aperture when handling the marker, while also allowing the marker to break near the aperture when a firm force is applied to the marker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Radar Engineers, Inc.
    Inventors: Denise K. Myers, Charles C. Kirkham
  • Publication number: 20080264327
    Abstract: A strain-responsive visual indicator comprises a pair of overlapping shutter strips (1, 2) adapted to be mounted to a substrate such that strain in the substrate causes relative movement M between them. Each shutter strip comprises an alternating set of windows (5) or (6) and bars (7) or (8) and the distal strip (2) is backed by a strip (3) of a different colour exposed through its windows (6), or the distal strip can instead be printed with a set of alternating colours in place of its windows and bars. The effect is that under different strain conditions different colour indications from the distal strip (2) will be visible through the windows (5) of the proximal strip (1), in accordance with the relative positions of the two strips. The indicator can be incorporated e.g. in the shaft of a toothbrush to give a visual warning in response to flexure of the shaft if excessive brushing pressure is applied. Numerous other applications and the use of different types of indicia are indicated in the specification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: Martin Andrew Pett, Ian Andrew Jamieson
  • Publication number: 20080251002
    Abstract: A tension indicator comprises a housing (1) mountable on a strap S which passes through mouths (5) and (6) of the housing. Within the housing, a barrel (11) is rotatably mounted upon a transverse axis (A). The barrel has a cross-passage (12) for strap (S). Towards its ends barrel (11) has discs (14), carrying slot (15) defining formations (16). The slots engage springs (21). The arrangement is such that in the relaxed state of the springs, barrel passage (12) is out of alignment with mouths (5) and (6), so that a strap (S) passing through the tension indictor is deflected to a lazy Z path. The housing has a window (23), through which barrel (11) can be seen. When springs (21) are relaxed, a “SLACK” portion (24) of barrel (11) can be seen through window (23). When strap (S) is tensioned it is straightened by abutting on ends (25) of passage (12). A different “TENSIONED” portion (26) of barrel (11) now becomes visible in window (23).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2005
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: BRITAX EXCELSIOR LIMITED
    Inventor: David Burleigh
  • Patent number: 7424996
    Abstract: A wire rope pre-failure indicating device that can be installed at any location along a length of conventional wire rope of the character used in many industrial applications. The indicating device reliably functions to provide a pre-failure warning that the wire rope has been loaded beyond a specified magnitude. The indicating device also provides a pre-failure warning that the swaged fittings, which interconnect the indicator to the wire rope, have undesirably slipped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventors: Stuart Larsen, William Turnbull
  • Publication number: 20080121170
    Abstract: A wire rope pre-failure indicating device that can be installed at any location along a length of conventional wire rope of the character used in many industrial applications. The indicating device reliably functions to provide a pre-failure warning that the wire rope has been loaded beyond a specified magnitude. The indicating device also provides a pre-failure warning that the swaged fittings, which interconnect the indicator to the wire rope, have undesirably slipped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventors: Stuart Larsen, William Turnbull
  • Patent number: 7363875
    Abstract: An overload indicator for a load supporting apparatus is arranged to bend during overloading of the apparatus, thereby visually indicating the overload to a user or observer. The indicator features a longitudinal member having a U-shaped cross section defining one central and two side portions. A series of slots extend into each side portion from a side opposite the central portion such that the member will bend concavely with respect to that side, moving opposite ends of the member closer together. The indicator is arranged to extend between connection points on a first member and a second load supporting member of the apparatus in order to bend in response to excessive loading of the second member. The bending moves the connection points of the two members closer together, thus bringing the load closer to the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Capital Safety Group Winnipeg Ltd.
    Inventor: Jan Vetesnik
  • Publication number: 20080092801
    Abstract: A wireless breakage indicator for a shear pin having an axial bore. The indicator (10) comprises a stem (20) having a head (22) and a foot (24) at opposite ends thereof; a sleeve (32) around a portion of the stem between a first (28) and second (30) axial positions, the stem (20) and sleeve (32) adapted to be broken by the shear pin (12) in the event of its breakage; a spring (26) compressed between the head (22) of the stem (20) and a first end (34) of the sleeve (32); the foot (24) of the stem (20) being retained to the second end (36) of the sleeve (32). The breakage of the stem (20) frees the head (22) to be displaced by the spring (26) and indicate breakage of the shear pin (12). The indication can be direct, by visual inspection of the displaced head, or indirect by the displacement of the head activating a transmitter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Marius Cloutier, Jean Pronovost
  • Publication number: 20080092802
    Abstract: A device for indicating a level of a bulk material in a bin. A motor imparts a swinging motion to a paddle located inside the bin. When the paddle engages the material, drag on the paddle causes a counteracting force on the motor, indicating a presence of material at the location of the device. In various embodiments, a paddle shaft, having very little exposure inside the bin, extends from a protective enclosure. The shaft is capped with a flexible section having the paddle attached to it. The paddle is at a downward angle relative to the paddle shaft and extends into the bin so as to engage the material. The paddle may move at an urging of the material so as to avoid damage to the paddle, flexible section, and shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Edwin Lee Henderson
  • Patent number: 7353770
    Abstract: A visual wear indicator is disclosed capable of giving a visual indication of the degree of wear on an athletic or other type of shoe. In general, the visual wear indicator may operate by having two different colored regions, each having a viscosity which varies a function of pressure. Before pressure is applied, the boundary between the two regions is clear. However, over time, as the midsole and/or outer sole of the shoe wear away, the pressure exerted on the visual wear indicator increases during activity. As the pressure increases, the viscosity of the regions eventually decreases. When the viscosity decreases, the regions bleed together, and the boundary between the regions becomes less clear. The degree of mixture between the regions may be calibrated to give a clear visual indication of when the shoe has worn down to the point where the shoe is unable to provide a desired level of support and stress absorption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Inventor: Chéri Sanguinetti
  • Publication number: 20080078320
    Abstract: A cable in accordance with the invention includes at least one core filament having a visually distinctive appearance; and a jacket, wrapped around at least a portion of said core filament. The jacket is adapted to change its opacity in response to tensile stress, thereby modulating the visibility of the core filament in relation to such stress. As a result, the overall appearance of the cable responds to stress, by changing at least one of chroma, hue, or value (visual appearance) quantifiably in response to tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: Terry M. Mattchen, James B. Gerken
  • Patent number: 7316169
    Abstract: Load-bearing devices, each including an overload indicator of the present invention interconnecting load bearing connectors, preferably elongated load bearing connectors are provided. In preferred embodiments, the load bearing connectors are chains, ropes, wire ropes, cables, straps and the like, preferably chain. The wire form overload indicator preferably includes a modified wire form link, preferably either a modified welded link or a modified quick link, generally having a first thickness and first and second elongated sides. The modified link preferably includes two elongated sides, one of which preferably has a portion having a diminished thickness narrower than the first thickness. The diminished thickness preferably has a generally predetermined load bearing capacity or capability and is calibrated to reduce the load bearing capacity or capability of the overload indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Peerless Chain Company
    Inventor: John McCauley
  • Patent number: 7148809
    Abstract: A seat belt connector assembly is provided with a seat belt anchor adapted to be coupled to a passenger seat and a cover for accommodating an upper part of the seat belt anchor. The seat belt anchor and the cover, which are relatively movable, are each formed with a seat-belt insertion hole permitting a seat belt to pass therethrough, and are formed with a mark and a through hole, respectively. When the desired relative position permitting the desired tension force to be applied to the seat belt is established between the seat belt anchor and the cover, the mark is made visible through the through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takayuki Enomoto, Naobumi Kuboki
  • Patent number: 7032466
    Abstract: A load-bearing device including an overload indicator and a wire form overload indicator are provided for interconnection of load bearing connectors, preferably elongated load bearing connectors, for bearing a load. In preferred embodiments, the load bearing connectors are chains, ropes, wire ropes, cables, straps and the like, preferably chain. The wire form overload indicator preferably includes a wire form quick-link having a first thickness, and first and second elongated sides. The first elongated side preferably includes an interconnectable gap through which connection loops of the load bearing connectors can pass when the interconnectable gap is unconnected. The interconnectable gap includes a connection end and a connectable end, the connecting end having a connector capable of connecting the connecting end to the connectable end to close the gap. The second elongated side preferably has a portion having a diminished thickness as compared to the first thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Peerless Chain
    Inventor: John J. McCauley
  • Patent number: 6951353
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a medication management system that is simple, reliable and extremely easy to use. It comprises a label having a plurality of raised tabs that are depressed upon taking a medication to provide a tactile and a visual record of medication use. It can be secured to the medication container, and thus is not subject to being misplaced or forgotten. The system can be integrated with a pharmacy's computerized pharmaceutical record and prescription label printing system or it can be a stand-alone paste-on label. Alternatively, it can be used in combination with blister packs to dispense medication while maintaining a record of use. The label can be in the form of an overlay, which is placed over a preprinted container or a container having a prescription label. The use of a pressure sensitive releasable adhesive permits the removal of the overlay label in the event that is it necessary to read information on the underlying label.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Inventors: Nancy Kozlowski, Nicholas Webb
  • Patent number: 6866342
    Abstract: A seat belt connector assembly is provided with a seat belt anchor adapted to be coupled to a passenger seat and a cover for accommodating an upper part of the seat belt anchor. The seat belt anchor and the cover, which are relatively movable, are each formed with a seat-belt insertion hole permitting a seat belt to pass therethrough, and are formed with a mark and a through hole, respectively. When the desired relative position permitting the desired tension force to be applied to the seat belt is established between the seat belt anchor and the cover, the mark is made visible through the through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takayuki Enomoto, Naobumi Kuboki
  • Patent number: 6848389
    Abstract: A shock force indicating device for measuring and visually displaying the extent of a shock force received by an article during handling of the article is disclosed. The device has a cavity formed between a base member and a top member having a raised portion. A bearing is disposed within the cavity. In a preferred embodiment, the top member and the base member provide a compressive force to the bearing such that the bearing is held in place until the device is subjected to a shock force greater than a predetermined threshold. The base member has a pressure sensitive material which provides a visually identifiable path which traces the movement of the bearing when the bearing moves in response to a shock force to the device. The base member may have indicating marks for representing a scale with which to measure a component of a force to the device. The top member is transparent for easy viewing of the indicating marks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Gateway, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan William Elsasser, Corwyn R. Meyer
  • Publication number: 20040016390
    Abstract: A short-term indenting memory device (10) comprises a plurality of flexible tubes (12) in bundled, woven or other intersecting relation to one another to form a mat or pad. The flexible tubes (12) comprise a sealed interior space (16) containing a viscous fluid (18). When an object (22) is set on the pad (10), an indentation (20) is formed therein which persists for some time after the object (12) is removed. In a further aspect, a method of providing a reminder comprises providing an indenting memory device (10) in accordance with this teaching. An object (22) set on a surface (14) thereof creates an indentation (20) which persists for a period of time after the object (22) is removed, thereby providing an indicium of whether the object (22) was previously present on the memory device (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Robert E. McMillan
  • Publication number: 20030154903
    Abstract: The invention relates to equipment such as for detecting and providing visual confirmation of pressure thereon, e.g. from an impact, which comprises an article having a sandwich construction with a pressure-disclosing layer (3) comprising a liquid crystal, thermochromic material, and a temperature differential layer (5), separated by a layer (4) providing a compressible mechanical shield between the pressure-disclosing layer and the temperature-differential layer. Material according to the invention can be employed to indicate the boundaries of a tennis court, or sports playing areas, or as a golf training aid, among other uses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen Charles Rakowski
  • Patent number: 6595597
    Abstract: For indicating relative rotational displacement between a fixed first member, such as a stud (20) on a wheel hub, and a second member, such as a wheel nut (22), which is rotatably engaged with the first member, a safety device (24) comprises a body (26) having a bore formed with equispaced grooves enabling the device to be releasably secured to the second member (22) in one position of a plurality of positions and having indicating means, such as a pointer (28), to indicate the position of the device (24) relative to a reference, such as a mark (32) on the rim (16) covering the wheel hub (14). The bore within the body (26) is closed at one end, e.g. by bevelled top wall (36), so that the body additionally serves as a dust cap for the conjoined first and second members (20, 22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Business Lines Limited
    Inventors: Michael Marczynski, John Marriott